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Recommend this book:
The Eighth Dimension
Frequency
Lorilyn Roberts
2026 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
Between ensuring her mother's late-night sleepwalking episodes don't end in tragedy and deciding whether she likes her colleague Judd enough to date him, Chumana Ironvein's days are hectic. It doesn't help that she lacks her father's support, as he has been absent since her parents' divorce. With all these issues on her mind, Chumana gradually starts to believe that if a higher power is controlling her life, it doesn't wish her well. Everything changes the day she receives a mysterious package with cryptic instructions on how to handle its contents. Though she has doubts, succeeding in this complex task offers her a chance to reconnect with her father. Nothing prepares her for the thrilling adventure that follows in Lorilyn Roberts's The Eighth Dimension: Frequency.
In The Eighth Dimension: Frequency, Lorilyn Roberts explores the origins of humanity as documented by supporters of science and Christianity. The principal character's origin story unfolds gradually as Roberts skillfully immerses readers in Chumana's daily struggles with her mother, complemented by her carefully considered decisions about her relationship with Judd. Throughout, the author highlights her flaws and creates a relatable context for readers to understand why she feels abandoned by God. Roberts balances a scientific perspective with a religious perspective focused on Chumana's moments of introspection and her entertaining Bible study sessions with friends. Their dialogue prompts thought-provoking conversations about the existence of supreme beings, which will intrigue Christian fiction fans. The relaxed narrative style seamlessly links Chumana's domestic struggles and extraterrestrial adventures through well-placed clues and a steady pace. This uniquely engaging novel will also appeal to science fiction lovers.
Between ensuring her mother's late-night sleepwalking episodes don't end in tragedy and deciding whether she likes her colleague Judd enough to date him, Chumana Ironvein's days are hectic. It doesn't help that she lacks her father's support, as he has been absent since her parents' divorce. With all these issues on her mind, Chumana gradually starts to believe that if a higher power is controlling her life, it doesn't wish her well. Everything changes the day she receives a mysterious package with cryptic instructions on how to handle its contents. Though she has doubts, succeeding in this complex task offers her a chance to reconnect with her father. Nothing prepares her for the thrilling adventure that follows in Lorilyn Roberts's The Eighth Dimension: Frequency.
In The Eighth Dimension: Frequency, Lorilyn Roberts explores the origins of humanity as documented by supporters of science and Christianity. The principal character's origin story unfolds gradually as Roberts skillfully immerses readers in Chumana's daily struggles with her mother, complemented by her carefully considered decisions about her relationship with Judd. Throughout, the author highlights her flaws and creates a relatable context for readers to understand why she feels abandoned by God. Roberts balances a scientific perspective with a religious perspective focused on Chumana's moments of introspection and her entertaining Bible study sessions with friends. Their dialogue prompts thought-provoking conversations about the existence of supreme beings, which will intrigue Christian fiction fans. The relaxed narrative style seamlessly links Chumana's domestic struggles and extraterrestrial adventures through well-placed clues and a steady pace. This uniquely engaging novel will also appeal to science fiction lovers.
Recommend this book:
Tales of Spooner Pond
Supernatural Tales of Unforgettable Characters and Peculiar Gifts
Terry Rasner
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by Mansoor Ahmed for Readers' Favorite
Tales of Spooner Pond by Terry Rasner is a magical and heartwarming story about a young girl named Pippy who discovers a secret world full of talking animals, hidden adventures, and deep life lessons. After drawing a mysterious map on her bedroom wall, Pippy is visited by Truggles—a tall, furry creature who becomes her guide to Spooner Pond, a place only a few are chosen to see. As Pippy begins to explore this colorful and wild new world, she meets “palimals”—animal friends with human traits—like Kitty Joe the tough-talking cat, Feathers the flying mouse, and Furry One the gentle bear. Along with her real-life friends Sarah and Howie, Pippy goes on exciting and sometimes dangerous journeys through magical forests, mazes, and other worlds, learning about courage, friendship, and her purpose along the way. The story blends fantasy and faith, offering fun and meaning for readers of all ages.
Terry Rasner’s writing is gentle and inviting, making the book easy to read and enjoy. The plot moves at a comfortable pace, with enough mystery and surprises to keep things interesting. I liked how the action was balanced with moments of quiet reflection, especially when Pippy talks with Truggles or faces challenges at home. The characters feel real and relatable, from Pippy’s loving but worried parents to her loyal friends and the magical creatures of Spooner Pond. The themes of imagination, family, and courage are woven throughout the story in a way that feels natural and meaningful. Reading this book reminded me of my childhood dreams and the comfort of having an imaginary friend. I think anyone who loves stories about adventures and believing in the impossible will find this book both heartwarming and inspiring.
Tales of Spooner Pond by Terry Rasner is a magical and heartwarming story about a young girl named Pippy who discovers a secret world full of talking animals, hidden adventures, and deep life lessons. After drawing a mysterious map on her bedroom wall, Pippy is visited by Truggles—a tall, furry creature who becomes her guide to Spooner Pond, a place only a few are chosen to see. As Pippy begins to explore this colorful and wild new world, she meets “palimals”—animal friends with human traits—like Kitty Joe the tough-talking cat, Feathers the flying mouse, and Furry One the gentle bear. Along with her real-life friends Sarah and Howie, Pippy goes on exciting and sometimes dangerous journeys through magical forests, mazes, and other worlds, learning about courage, friendship, and her purpose along the way. The story blends fantasy and faith, offering fun and meaning for readers of all ages.
Terry Rasner’s writing is gentle and inviting, making the book easy to read and enjoy. The plot moves at a comfortable pace, with enough mystery and surprises to keep things interesting. I liked how the action was balanced with moments of quiet reflection, especially when Pippy talks with Truggles or faces challenges at home. The characters feel real and relatable, from Pippy’s loving but worried parents to her loyal friends and the magical creatures of Spooner Pond. The themes of imagination, family, and courage are woven throughout the story in a way that feels natural and meaningful. Reading this book reminded me of my childhood dreams and the comfort of having an imaginary friend. I think anyone who loves stories about adventures and believing in the impossible will find this book both heartwarming and inspiring.
Recommend this book:
Children of Echoes
A.J. Stopani
2026 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
Ayla Beyz was just a photophobic, comic book geek to her peers in Colorado Springs, and she didn’t think any more of herself until her father pulled her and her sister through a portal that sent them to another world. She learns that she is from an alien race called Karani, and Karakin, the world they had entered, is their homeworld. It turns out Ayla’s grandmother is the matriarch of her clan, and Ayla has been chosen as her heir. However, Ayla is reluctant to accept her new role and yearns to return to Earth. In a bid to curb Ayla from going back to Earth, her grandmother unleashes Soul Drinkers, evil creatures from Karanik, on Earth. But that’s not all. Justin, a boy who had a crush on Ayla and had tagged along on their portal jump to Karanik, was missing. Where is Justin? Will Earth survive the evil coming its way? Find out in Children of Echoes by A. J. Stopani.
If you’re looking for a contemporary, coming-of-age YA sci-fi/dark fantasy, Children of Echoes by A. J. Stopani is a perfect pick. With an introduction that immediately raises the stakes and promises a gripping tale, Stopani weaves an intriguing plot featuring a dynamic, exciting cast, which lives up to the initial promise. Ayla is an emotional, caring, and sensitive girl from whom the world constantly demands bravery and grit. Through the moments of her breaking down, showing more compassion than is expected of her, and uncertainty of decision, she demonstrates that bravery makes one vulnerable. Ayla must make tough decisions, join unlikely alliances, and lead a ragtag band of peers, each gifted differently, on a daunting mission to save Earth. I enjoyed the thrills, humor, and action in this read. Stopani hints at the continuation of this story, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next installment.
Ayla Beyz was just a photophobic, comic book geek to her peers in Colorado Springs, and she didn’t think any more of herself until her father pulled her and her sister through a portal that sent them to another world. She learns that she is from an alien race called Karani, and Karakin, the world they had entered, is their homeworld. It turns out Ayla’s grandmother is the matriarch of her clan, and Ayla has been chosen as her heir. However, Ayla is reluctant to accept her new role and yearns to return to Earth. In a bid to curb Ayla from going back to Earth, her grandmother unleashes Soul Drinkers, evil creatures from Karanik, on Earth. But that’s not all. Justin, a boy who had a crush on Ayla and had tagged along on their portal jump to Karanik, was missing. Where is Justin? Will Earth survive the evil coming its way? Find out in Children of Echoes by A. J. Stopani.
If you’re looking for a contemporary, coming-of-age YA sci-fi/dark fantasy, Children of Echoes by A. J. Stopani is a perfect pick. With an introduction that immediately raises the stakes and promises a gripping tale, Stopani weaves an intriguing plot featuring a dynamic, exciting cast, which lives up to the initial promise. Ayla is an emotional, caring, and sensitive girl from whom the world constantly demands bravery and grit. Through the moments of her breaking down, showing more compassion than is expected of her, and uncertainty of decision, she demonstrates that bravery makes one vulnerable. Ayla must make tough decisions, join unlikely alliances, and lead a ragtag band of peers, each gifted differently, on a daunting mission to save Earth. I enjoyed the thrills, humor, and action in this read. Stopani hints at the continuation of this story, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next installment.
Recommend this book:
Echo of Broken Skies
Jessica Deen Norris
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
There seemed to be no place to hide for the Clamors, people who possessed magic, in the Kingdom of Vocaris. The King’s guards were getting better at spotting them, and their execution methods were becoming more ruthless. Derron, a laborer in Banlyn, the capital of Vocaris, lived in constant fear for his life, dreading the day the guards would discover his long-kept secret of being a Clamor. After losing his friend Orson, also a Clamor, to the guards, he realizes it’s just a matter of time before he meets the same fate. When a stranger offers to help him escape to Murmoris, a distant land rumored to be a refuge for magic wielders, he has no choice but to accept. On the other hand, Raven, a Clamor who has spent all her life hidden in the woods in the care of her secretive guardian Linette, craves freedom and answers about her magic. After eavesdropping on a conversation between merchants and finding Linette’s map detailing the location of Murmoris, Raven flees there. What will Derron and Raven discover in Murmoris? Find out in Echo of Broken Skies by Jessica Deen Norris.
If you are looking for a young adult epic fantasy with a touch of dystopia, adventure, action, suspense, and jaw-dropping plot twists, Echo of Broken Skies by Jessica Deen Norris is a perfect pick. Norris unfolds the intriguing, fast-paced plot, alternating between the arcs of the two protagonists, Derron and Raven. Alongside the evocative depictions of the scenes, an oppressive, bleak world is defined by pervasive tension and urgency. Fans of The Hunger Games will love this read. Norris explores themes of fear, persecution, isolation, power, control, despair, and hope. The story mirrors the behavior of real-world society. It is always ready to judge, shun, and destroy whatever it deems different or cannot understand. The purposeful, often gritty conversations gave insight into the cast’s emotions and traits, allowing me to connect with them. Raven and Derron embody the journey of self-acceptance, self-discovery, and finding purpose in their search for freedom and belonging. There is betrayal, survival, ancient prophecies, dark secrets, monsters, rebellion, factions, war, dangerous voyages, and much more for readers.
There seemed to be no place to hide for the Clamors, people who possessed magic, in the Kingdom of Vocaris. The King’s guards were getting better at spotting them, and their execution methods were becoming more ruthless. Derron, a laborer in Banlyn, the capital of Vocaris, lived in constant fear for his life, dreading the day the guards would discover his long-kept secret of being a Clamor. After losing his friend Orson, also a Clamor, to the guards, he realizes it’s just a matter of time before he meets the same fate. When a stranger offers to help him escape to Murmoris, a distant land rumored to be a refuge for magic wielders, he has no choice but to accept. On the other hand, Raven, a Clamor who has spent all her life hidden in the woods in the care of her secretive guardian Linette, craves freedom and answers about her magic. After eavesdropping on a conversation between merchants and finding Linette’s map detailing the location of Murmoris, Raven flees there. What will Derron and Raven discover in Murmoris? Find out in Echo of Broken Skies by Jessica Deen Norris.
If you are looking for a young adult epic fantasy with a touch of dystopia, adventure, action, suspense, and jaw-dropping plot twists, Echo of Broken Skies by Jessica Deen Norris is a perfect pick. Norris unfolds the intriguing, fast-paced plot, alternating between the arcs of the two protagonists, Derron and Raven. Alongside the evocative depictions of the scenes, an oppressive, bleak world is defined by pervasive tension and urgency. Fans of The Hunger Games will love this read. Norris explores themes of fear, persecution, isolation, power, control, despair, and hope. The story mirrors the behavior of real-world society. It is always ready to judge, shun, and destroy whatever it deems different or cannot understand. The purposeful, often gritty conversations gave insight into the cast’s emotions and traits, allowing me to connect with them. Raven and Derron embody the journey of self-acceptance, self-discovery, and finding purpose in their search for freedom and belonging. There is betrayal, survival, ancient prophecies, dark secrets, monsters, rebellion, factions, war, dangerous voyages, and much more for readers.
Recommend this book:
Lost
The Lost City of Incan Gold
Brigid Kennedy
2026 Gold Medal
326 Pages
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Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
When Catalina Kennedy and her brother Robby are sent to Ireland to train to be Masters of Blades, they expect to be back home in Peru in a short while. Fifteen years later, and still not called back home, the pair is curious about why their family is silent. An arranged marriage between Catalina and a boy from a rival clan forces the siblings to flee Ireland for Peru. However, on arriving home, they are shocked by what they find. Shortly after sending them to Ireland, their father left on an expedition into the Amazon and had never returned. And while their mother met a tragic end during childbirth, she left Catalina and Robby with more family. Soon, the siblings decide to finish what their father started and set out on the same expedition. Unknown to them, they are about to uncover long-lost family members, supernatural powers, and ancient treasures in the Amazon. Find out how it all goes down in Lost: The Lost City of Incan Gold by Brigid Kennedy.
If you are looking for a coming-of-age young adult epic fantasy laced with drama, adventure, a touch of romance, suspense, and plot twists, Lost by Brigid Kennedy is a great pick. An intriguing introduction sets the stage for Catalina and Robby’s perilous mystical journey in an enthralling tale steeped in Irish mythology and Incan legends. The prose balances the plot’s development and the personal lives of the characters. I could feel their profound emotions as they encountered or processed various conflicts. I understood their resentment, fears, anger, and other sentiments as they interacted. The vivid depictions brought the early nineteenth-century setting to life on the pages, making me feel as if I were next to the cast as the scenes unfolded; from the tense ball in Ireland, where the O’Flahertys schemed over Catalina’s future, to the sea voyage on stormy waters, and the expedition into the Amazon filled with supernatural wonder, danger, and shocking revelations. This is an enthralling debut in the series.
When Catalina Kennedy and her brother Robby are sent to Ireland to train to be Masters of Blades, they expect to be back home in Peru in a short while. Fifteen years later, and still not called back home, the pair is curious about why their family is silent. An arranged marriage between Catalina and a boy from a rival clan forces the siblings to flee Ireland for Peru. However, on arriving home, they are shocked by what they find. Shortly after sending them to Ireland, their father left on an expedition into the Amazon and had never returned. And while their mother met a tragic end during childbirth, she left Catalina and Robby with more family. Soon, the siblings decide to finish what their father started and set out on the same expedition. Unknown to them, they are about to uncover long-lost family members, supernatural powers, and ancient treasures in the Amazon. Find out how it all goes down in Lost: The Lost City of Incan Gold by Brigid Kennedy.
If you are looking for a coming-of-age young adult epic fantasy laced with drama, adventure, a touch of romance, suspense, and plot twists, Lost by Brigid Kennedy is a great pick. An intriguing introduction sets the stage for Catalina and Robby’s perilous mystical journey in an enthralling tale steeped in Irish mythology and Incan legends. The prose balances the plot’s development and the personal lives of the characters. I could feel their profound emotions as they encountered or processed various conflicts. I understood their resentment, fears, anger, and other sentiments as they interacted. The vivid depictions brought the early nineteenth-century setting to life on the pages, making me feel as if I were next to the cast as the scenes unfolded; from the tense ball in Ireland, where the O’Flahertys schemed over Catalina’s future, to the sea voyage on stormy waters, and the expedition into the Amazon filled with supernatural wonder, danger, and shocking revelations. This is an enthralling debut in the series.
Recommend this book:
The Tomb of Ptahmes
A Tale of Historical Intrigue and Imaginative Fiction for Teens
C.W. James
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
Malcolm Pinsent and his son Carter are in the middle of an archaeological dig near Meydum, a community in the Libyan Desert, when Sir Robert Ottley, a famous explorer, and his daughter approach them with an unusual proposition. He wants to use Malcolm Pinsent's men to excavate a sarcophagus with a remarkable history. The expedition takes a deadly turn when Ottley is gruesomely wounded in the encounter, yet he offers to buy the Pinsent's silence concerning his expedition. They have no idea that their cooperation in the matter will drag them into a puzzling conspiracy to verify the authenticity of a two-thousand-year-old prophecy, complete with its accompanying curse. With the odds against their fathers, the onus rests on Carter and May to resolve the situation. Only time will tell if they will survive the consequences of their actions in C.W. James's The Tomb Of Ptahmes.
The action is nonstop in The Tomb Of Ptahmes. The plot is a masterful fusion of mystery and suspense, deeply rooted in beautifully rendered Egyptian mythology. C.W. James dives right into the action from the first page, offering the reader the origins of both the Pinsents and the Ottleys with such fluidity that there is no doubt that a one-of-a-kind adventure is in the offing. The character development is pristine. Despite their shaky alliance based on shared interests, the similarities between Carter's and May's early childhood suggest a possible meeting of the minds. The dialogue between the characters maintains the British perspective while adding a healthy dose of that quintessential British humor in vibrant verbal sparring. James has found the perfect formula for crafting a riveting narrative with a unique storytelling approach and breakneck pacing in The Tomb Of Ptahmes.
Malcolm Pinsent and his son Carter are in the middle of an archaeological dig near Meydum, a community in the Libyan Desert, when Sir Robert Ottley, a famous explorer, and his daughter approach them with an unusual proposition. He wants to use Malcolm Pinsent's men to excavate a sarcophagus with a remarkable history. The expedition takes a deadly turn when Ottley is gruesomely wounded in the encounter, yet he offers to buy the Pinsent's silence concerning his expedition. They have no idea that their cooperation in the matter will drag them into a puzzling conspiracy to verify the authenticity of a two-thousand-year-old prophecy, complete with its accompanying curse. With the odds against their fathers, the onus rests on Carter and May to resolve the situation. Only time will tell if they will survive the consequences of their actions in C.W. James's The Tomb Of Ptahmes.
The action is nonstop in The Tomb Of Ptahmes. The plot is a masterful fusion of mystery and suspense, deeply rooted in beautifully rendered Egyptian mythology. C.W. James dives right into the action from the first page, offering the reader the origins of both the Pinsents and the Ottleys with such fluidity that there is no doubt that a one-of-a-kind adventure is in the offing. The character development is pristine. Despite their shaky alliance based on shared interests, the similarities between Carter's and May's early childhood suggest a possible meeting of the minds. The dialogue between the characters maintains the British perspective while adding a healthy dose of that quintessential British humor in vibrant verbal sparring. James has found the perfect formula for crafting a riveting narrative with a unique storytelling approach and breakneck pacing in The Tomb Of Ptahmes.
Recommend this book:
Iseris
House of Power
A.A. Smith
2025 Honorable Mention
201 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by David Jaggart for Readers' Favorite
Iseris by A.A. Smith tells the tale of Mora, a humble Augstian Midlander residing in a tiny village called Wheyn. Unlike most of her friends, Mora's magical skills are grossly undeveloped, resulting in endless taunting and ostracism from her classmates. When her best friend, Cassel, informs her of his intention to relocate to Alia City after graduation, Mora is overwhelmed with anxiety. She has grown accustomed to her undemanding life in Wheyn with her mother. Quite unexpectedly, Krolus, a neighboring country, begins to wage war with Augstia, violating their Treaty of Separation. Mora, badly injured and disorientated, unknowingly travels to the palace of House Halucen. The Augstian royalty asks their daughter, Lord Somnus, to escort Mora back to her village. Somnus begrudgingly agrees. Along their journey, both young women discover many surprising truths about themselves and the Augstian monarchy. As war rages on, Mora hopes to one day reunite with her mother and Cassel.
Iseris is a spellbinding YA fantasy that will undoubtedly leave readers wanting more. This tale is awash with mystery, shocking secrets, magic, and self-discovery, making it an addictive read from beginning to end. I was completely drawn to Mora and her comrades, each possessing distinct personality styles, skills, and motivations. I loved their budding group dynamic and can't wait to see where their travels take them in future installments. Each of Mora's companions has qualities that make them intriguing and likable--even Somnus. I especially loved Mora's and Somnus' transformative character growth throughout the storyline. Watching Mora slowly transition from an unconfident Midlander to a resilient young woman was both invigorating and enthralling. I was equally impressed by Somnus' character development. It was refreshing to see a more compassionate and sincere side of her as their journey progressed. This novel is perfect for fans of rich world-building, high-stakes quests, action-packed adventures, and unforgettable characters.
Iseris by A.A. Smith tells the tale of Mora, a humble Augstian Midlander residing in a tiny village called Wheyn. Unlike most of her friends, Mora's magical skills are grossly undeveloped, resulting in endless taunting and ostracism from her classmates. When her best friend, Cassel, informs her of his intention to relocate to Alia City after graduation, Mora is overwhelmed with anxiety. She has grown accustomed to her undemanding life in Wheyn with her mother. Quite unexpectedly, Krolus, a neighboring country, begins to wage war with Augstia, violating their Treaty of Separation. Mora, badly injured and disorientated, unknowingly travels to the palace of House Halucen. The Augstian royalty asks their daughter, Lord Somnus, to escort Mora back to her village. Somnus begrudgingly agrees. Along their journey, both young women discover many surprising truths about themselves and the Augstian monarchy. As war rages on, Mora hopes to one day reunite with her mother and Cassel.
Iseris is a spellbinding YA fantasy that will undoubtedly leave readers wanting more. This tale is awash with mystery, shocking secrets, magic, and self-discovery, making it an addictive read from beginning to end. I was completely drawn to Mora and her comrades, each possessing distinct personality styles, skills, and motivations. I loved their budding group dynamic and can't wait to see where their travels take them in future installments. Each of Mora's companions has qualities that make them intriguing and likable--even Somnus. I especially loved Mora's and Somnus' transformative character growth throughout the storyline. Watching Mora slowly transition from an unconfident Midlander to a resilient young woman was both invigorating and enthralling. I was equally impressed by Somnus' character development. It was refreshing to see a more compassionate and sincere side of her as their journey progressed. This novel is perfect for fans of rich world-building, high-stakes quests, action-packed adventures, and unforgettable characters.
Recommend this book:
Miri and The Honeybee
NJ Lujan
2025 Bronze Medal
248 Pages
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Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by Mary Clarke for Readers' Favorite
Miri and The Honeybee by NJ Lujan is a heartfelt tale of a Yorkshire Terrier used as a breeding dog in a backyard puppy mill. She suffered for a long time at the hands of a cruel owner, Wayne. But things were not the same when the latest litter of her puppies was taken away. Miri couldn't let her babies leave, so she bravely escaped to find them. Along the way, she came across a caring woman called Georgia and her friend Dottie, who were both hell-bent on helping her, exposing Wayne's operation, and uncovering the truth. With a determined attorney's help, the case against Wayne went through, shedding light on the tragic harshness of backyard puppy mills.
During all this time, Miri had an unlikely companion and best friend, a honeybee called Queenie. Their friendship was special; it is a reminder of how beautiful things can arise even from the darkest moments. Miri's story shows the great strength of dogs in facing adversities and the necessity of love and justice for all life, be it animal or human. NJ Lujan's writing style was seamless. The courtroom scene where Miri faces off with her abuser stands out—it is written with such raw power and tension that it left me breathless. The characters' development is excellent and flows nicely. Miri and The Honeybee is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply moving, impactful, and beautifully written story. Dog lovers will also appreciate this book.
Miri and The Honeybee by NJ Lujan is a heartfelt tale of a Yorkshire Terrier used as a breeding dog in a backyard puppy mill. She suffered for a long time at the hands of a cruel owner, Wayne. But things were not the same when the latest litter of her puppies was taken away. Miri couldn't let her babies leave, so she bravely escaped to find them. Along the way, she came across a caring woman called Georgia and her friend Dottie, who were both hell-bent on helping her, exposing Wayne's operation, and uncovering the truth. With a determined attorney's help, the case against Wayne went through, shedding light on the tragic harshness of backyard puppy mills.
During all this time, Miri had an unlikely companion and best friend, a honeybee called Queenie. Their friendship was special; it is a reminder of how beautiful things can arise even from the darkest moments. Miri's story shows the great strength of dogs in facing adversities and the necessity of love and justice for all life, be it animal or human. NJ Lujan's writing style was seamless. The courtroom scene where Miri faces off with her abuser stands out—it is written with such raw power and tension that it left me breathless. The characters' development is excellent and flows nicely. Miri and The Honeybee is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply moving, impactful, and beautifully written story. Dog lovers will also appreciate this book.
Recommend this book:
A Shadow Falls
Bloodlines Legacy
Rose Garcia
2025 Bronze Medal
308 Pages
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Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by Jennifer Reinoehl for Readers' Favorite
Rose Garcia’s A Shadow Falls is Book 2 in the Bloodlines Legacy series. Due to a twist of fate in the fae world of Faevenly, Mateo has gone from lowly Sublander to Lord Prince of House Stromm. Avalynn, once believed to be a Princess of Stromm, has discovered she is the Only One—Princess of both House Strong and House Kane, as well as partially human. She has feelings for Mateo, but when she betrayed him, which revealed his princely position, it pushed him into the arms of his mother, the icy High Queen of Faevenly. The High Queen has solidified her hold on him through a dark magic amulet. Avalynn and Mateo’s other friends try to rescue him from a fate he now embraces, and end up journeying with him to the Wild North to seek out dragons. Will the love they once shared be enough to overcome the power of the amulet?
A Shadow Falls continues the story of Mateo and Avalynn as they travel their paths to fulfill a prophecy in this page-turning, action-packed sequel. The corruption of the amulet creates a realistic internal fight over Mateo’s very soul that keeps readers rooting for him to make good choices even when he fails to do so. The themes of vengeance and betrayal keep the reader guessing about which characters can and cannot be trusted. The concrete plot whisks readers into a fantasy world where one can get lost, investing readers in the fight to save Faevenly as much as the characters who are invested in it.
Rose Garcia’s A Shadow Falls is Book 2 in the Bloodlines Legacy series. Due to a twist of fate in the fae world of Faevenly, Mateo has gone from lowly Sublander to Lord Prince of House Stromm. Avalynn, once believed to be a Princess of Stromm, has discovered she is the Only One—Princess of both House Strong and House Kane, as well as partially human. She has feelings for Mateo, but when she betrayed him, which revealed his princely position, it pushed him into the arms of his mother, the icy High Queen of Faevenly. The High Queen has solidified her hold on him through a dark magic amulet. Avalynn and Mateo’s other friends try to rescue him from a fate he now embraces, and end up journeying with him to the Wild North to seek out dragons. Will the love they once shared be enough to overcome the power of the amulet?
A Shadow Falls continues the story of Mateo and Avalynn as they travel their paths to fulfill a prophecy in this page-turning, action-packed sequel. The corruption of the amulet creates a realistic internal fight over Mateo’s very soul that keeps readers rooting for him to make good choices even when he fails to do so. The themes of vengeance and betrayal keep the reader guessing about which characters can and cannot be trusted. The concrete plot whisks readers into a fantasy world where one can get lost, investing readers in the fight to save Faevenly as much as the characters who are invested in it.
Recommend this book:
. Now Volke isn’t a picky person; he will be happy to bond with any creature as long as it brings him magical powers. He and his adopted s...){kind=link}
Knightmare Arcanist
Frith Chronicles Book 1
Shami Stovall
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Adventure
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Knightmare Arcanist is the first book in the Frith Chronicles by Shami Stovall. Volke Savan is a gravedigger who dreams of becoming an Arcanist (a person who can wield magic by bonding with a mythical creature). Now Volke isn’t a picky person; he will be happy to bond with any creature as long as it brings him magical powers. He and his adopted sister Illia travel in search of a crashed ship that had unbonded mythical creatures. As luck would have it, they both succeed in getting bonded. But being Volke, he bonds with Knightmare Luthair. Luthair has already lost one partner and he wants Volke to find the person who was responsible for his first partner’s death if he wants to draw any magic from him. Only thing is, Volke would have to fight against arcanists who are far more powerful than him. Does he have what it takes to be an Arcanist?
Knightmare Arcanist is a brilliant young adult story with just the right amount of humor, sarcasm, action, and fantasy to blow your mind. I loved Volke’s interactions with Luthair. The witty comebacks and the constant back and forths between these two were incredible. The race against time to figure out the magical plague was handled well along with the mystery to find who killed Luthair’s first arcanist. The author juggled both plotlines incredibly well. There is no shortage of action in this story. Volke gets plenty of opportunities to grow; he gets beaten yet he always gets up. I was sucked into the story the moment I read the blurb. Shami Stovall’s writing style is excellent, she is an exceptional storyteller and a master of writing vivid descriptions. She kept the suspense, built the hype, and allowed the reader to get fully invested in the storyline from the get-go. Even Zaxis grew on me at the end. Shami Stovall gave a personality to every character, including the mythical creatures. No one will put this book down until they have read it from cover to cover. I don't think it can get better than this. I can’t wait for the next novel in the series.
Knightmare Arcanist is the first book in the Frith Chronicles by Shami Stovall. Volke Savan is a gravedigger who dreams of becoming an Arcanist (a person who can wield magic by bonding with a mythical creature). Now Volke isn’t a picky person; he will be happy to bond with any creature as long as it brings him magical powers. He and his adopted sister Illia travel in search of a crashed ship that had unbonded mythical creatures. As luck would have it, they both succeed in getting bonded. But being Volke, he bonds with Knightmare Luthair. Luthair has already lost one partner and he wants Volke to find the person who was responsible for his first partner’s death if he wants to draw any magic from him. Only thing is, Volke would have to fight against arcanists who are far more powerful than him. Does he have what it takes to be an Arcanist?
Knightmare Arcanist is a brilliant young adult story with just the right amount of humor, sarcasm, action, and fantasy to blow your mind. I loved Volke’s interactions with Luthair. The witty comebacks and the constant back and forths between these two were incredible. The race against time to figure out the magical plague was handled well along with the mystery to find who killed Luthair’s first arcanist. The author juggled both plotlines incredibly well. There is no shortage of action in this story. Volke gets plenty of opportunities to grow; he gets beaten yet he always gets up. I was sucked into the story the moment I read the blurb. Shami Stovall’s writing style is excellent, she is an exceptional storyteller and a master of writing vivid descriptions. She kept the suspense, built the hype, and allowed the reader to get fully invested in the storyline from the get-go. Even Zaxis grew on me at the end. Shami Stovall gave a personality to every character, including the mythical creatures. No one will put this book down until they have read it from cover to cover. I don't think it can get better than this. I can’t wait for the next novel in the series.
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